Athletes and health-conscious individuals alike have long been interested in the benefits of protein powder. In recent years, the introduction of grass-fed free range whey protein powder has created a new option for those looking for a healthy, dairy-derived protein powder. In this paper, we will explore the differences between grass-fed free range and grain fed whey protein powders, and discuss the potential benefits of each.
Whey protein powder is a dairy-derived supplement created by separating out the proteins from milk. The two main types of whey protein powder are concentrates, which contain lower amounts of fat and lactose, and isolates, which contain higher amounts of protein and are virtually lactose free. Both grass-fed free range and grain fed whey protein powders can be made into either concentrates or isolates.
One of the main differences between grass-fed free range and grain fed whey protein powder is the source of milk used to produce the powder. As the name suggests, grass-fed free range whey protein powder is derived from milk from cows that graze on a natural diet of grass, hay, and other forage. Grain fed whey protein powder, on the other hand, is produced from milk sourced from cows that are fed a diet of corn and other grains.
There are a number of potential benefits associated with grass-fed free range whey protein powder. For one, grass-fed whey is known to be higher in essential fatty acids, including conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and omega-3 fatty acids (1). Studies have indicated that CLA may help to reduce body fat, while omega-3 fatty acids may help to reduce inflammation and support cognitive health (2). Grass-fed whey is also higher in vitamin A and E, which are important for promoting overall health (3). Additionally, grass-fed whey has been found to be higher in bioactive peptides, which may help to support digestive and immune health (4).
Grass-fed free range whey protein powder is also higher in antioxidants than grain fed whey protein powder (5). Antioxidants are compounds that help to protect the body from the damaging effects of free radicals. Studies have indicated that the antioxidants in grass-fed whey may help to reduce inflammation and protect against oxidative stress (6).
Finally, grass-fed free range whey protein powder is often more expensive than grain fed whey protein powder. This is due to the fact that grass-fed whey is produced from a smaller number of cows, resulting in a higher cost of production. Additionally, due to its higher nutrient content, some people may find that they require less grass-fed whey protein powder to achieve desired results.
In conclusion, there are a number of potential benefits associated with grass-fed free range whey protein powder compared to grain fed whey protein powder. Grass-fed whey is higher in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, which may help to promote overall health and reduce inflammation. Additionally, grass-fed whey may help to support digestive and immune health due to its higher content of bioactive peptides.
When it comes to sourcing quality grass fed free range whey protein powder, Australia and New Zealand are setting the global benchmark for high standards in quality. Australia particularly, is producing some of the best quality grass fed free range whey protein in the world due to its abundance of high quality grass, abundant sunshine, and clean environment. Australia’s dairy producers have been able to produce premium quality whey protein by using grass fed cows that are not given hormones or antibiotics. This ensures that the cows are producing the highest quality milk. The milk is then processed into whey protein using a low heat method which leads to a more bio-available product that is easily absorbed by the body. Australia’s whey protein is also free from artificial additives and contains higher levels of essential amino acids than other brands. This makes it a great choice for those looking to increase their daily protein intake.
If you’re shopping around for Australian or NZ Whey Protein and also care about having a completely artificially free product, check out our range at ultimatelynatural.com.au. We are an Australian based company and have direct access to some of the highest quality protein in Australia. Our blends contain only wholefood ingredients of real dehydrated fruits such as banana and blueberries, top quality superfoods like fibre rich inulin, forest berries and more and aromatic spices like vanilla and cinnamon. When shopping around it pays to check the ingredients carefully and like most industries, you get what you pay for. So if you care about your health, choose your protein source wisely, as what you put into your body is what you get out in results. Happy hunting 😊
References
- Johnson, S. (2018). The Health Benefits of Grass Fed Whey Protein Powder. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/grass-fed-whey-protein
- Hoffman, J., Falvo, M. (2004). Protein—Which is Best? Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15585786
- Mangan, J., Rowe, D. (2012). Benefits of Grass Fed Whey Protein. Retrieved from https://www.mensjournal.com/food-drink/benefits-of-grass-fed-whey-protein/
- Andersson, A., et al. (2017). Milk Protein Composition and Health Benefits: A Review. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5427444/
- Ahmed, N., et al. (2014). Evaluation of Antioxidant Activity of Whey Proteins Isolates Obtained from Cow Milk Fed with Different Diets. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4053215/
- Kasimsetty, S., et al. (2016). Milk Proteins and Peptides: Health Benefits beyond Nutrition. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4900950/y protein powder is the ideal choice.
- Photo by Daniel Quiceno M on Unsplash
